One Day in Capri
As part of our visit to the Amalfi Coast, we knew we had to also visit Capri. An island off the coast of Naples, Capri is known for its stunning landscape, vivid blue waters, historical sites, and luxury hotels and shopping. For me, Capri was one of those bucket-list worthy destinations that was so much more beautiful then I could have imagined.
From Positano, Capri was a short boat ride away. We left first thing in the morning on a ferry so we had all afternoon to wander the island. When we arrived we took the funicular (a sort of mini tram) up to the top of the island and headed to Augustus Gardens, a botanical garden overlook with some of the best panoramic views. As soon as we arrived at Augustus Gardens I couldn’t get over the stunning beauty of Capri. The water was full of white wake lines from boats and yachts making their way through the rock formations that surround the island. On the far side of the garden is a narrow road with dramatic hairpin bends leading down the cliff to the water.
For lunch, we grabbed an outdoor table on the patio at Ristorante il Geranio. The restaurant overlooks the Augustus Gardens, so we were able to continue to take in the views with a glass of wine and dish of fresh pasta (so dreamy). After lunch we stopped in Carthusia, the most gorgeous perfume store. I purchased a bottle of Gelsomini di Capri, a delicate perfume with notes of jasmine and orange blossom. It quickly became one of my favorite souvenirs. Every time I wear it it I’m reminded of beautiful Capri and my trip there.
With only one day on the island, we had to select just a few sights to see. We chose to visit Villa Jovis, the ruins of an old Roman imperial palace built by Emperor Tiberius. It was a long, uphill walk to get there, but with the villa being at the very end of the island on the cliff’s edge, we had an uninterrupted view over the water. On our trek back to town we went down the winding pathway to one of many famous rock formations on the island: Natural Arch (or Arco Naturale). It is the limestone remains of a collapsed grotto that has formed a perfect arch. There is so much natural beauty on Capri, but be sure to save some time to explore the tiny streets lined with shops and boutiques as well. After all, it’s the perfect excuse to grab a gelato and sit in Piazza Umberto square.
The coastline and views on the island are absolutely breathtaking and I only wish we had been able to spend more time there to explore. What would you do if you visited Capri? Let me know in the comments below!